The Blues boss told The News that targets have already been discussed as he looks to make the most of players’ availability following the expiry of their contracts.
At present, 224 players within League One are due to be available for nothing once their current deals expire next June.
And Cowley admitted he wants to be well posed to swoop if those of interest to him become available.
But with so many poised to join the free-agent ranks, where does he start?
To help him, we’ve identified 24 League One players in the final year of the contracts who could do a job for the Blues.
5. Panutche Camara (Plymouth)
Attacking-midfielder Camara learnt his trade in Portugal before moving to England in 2016 to join Barnsley’s academy. After spells at Dulwich Hamlet and Crawley, the 24-year-old moved to Argyle in 2020 and has been a regular feature in the Pilgrims squad while also playing a key role in Plymouth’s flying start this season which has seen the Greens reach the summit of League One. Picture: Alex Davidson/Getty Images Photo: Alex Davidson
6. Elliot Embleton (Sunderland)
The central midfielder came through the Sunderland academy and got his breakthrough when Jack Ross was in charge. After initially failing to make an impact at the Stadium of Light, the 22-year-old was loaned out to Blackpool last January and was influential in the Tangerines' promotion via the play-offs. Now back at Sunderland, he has flourished under Lee Johnson as he is playing a key role in Sunderland's flying start to the season. Picture: Gareth Copley/Getty Images Photo: Gareth Copley
7. Vadaine Oliver (Gillingham)
The 29-year-old has been a natural goalscorer in league's One and Two during his career and has shot out of the blocks by scoring four times so far this season. An out and out forward, he joined Gillingham in 2020 and as thrived under Steve Evans in the 12 months he’s been at the Gills. Is he the natural goalscorer Danny Cowley is so badly craves?Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Photo: Justin Setterfield
8. Jack Tucker (Gillingham)
The central defender is a favourite of Danny Cowley's after reported interest in the 21-year-old during the summer. One of the Gills' academy graduates, Tucker has again shown his worth with an impressive start to the season. Clubs in the Championship and Scotland will also be keeping an eye on his situation. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images Photo: Justin Setterfield